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Jazz/Commercial Performance Concentration

Gain experience in a variety of settings with a diverse range of performance techniques
and prepare to become an active participant in today’s rich and diverse musical culture.

With a focus on jazz/commercial performance, instrumentalists and vocalists are equipped
with the tools and skills that allow them to develop a greater degree of flexibility
and professionalism along with personal experiences with the creative process. Our
dedicated faculty include regionally and internationally recognized jazz artists.
You will have opportunities to perform with Towson’s jazz orchestra (founded by the
late Hank Levy), the pop ensemble, the Latin ensemble, jazz guitar ensemble, vocal
jazz ensemble, the free improvisation ensemble, and the jazz combos.

Course offerings cover such topics as the music industry, ethics, and recording techniques.
Towson’s recording studio provides opportunities to create and perform for recording
projects in a professional environment. A separate application and performance audition are required for admission to the concentration. View degree requirements in the Undergraduate Catalog.

Guest artists visit the program to offer concerts and workshops to our students as
well as members of the community. Each semester, the Bill and Helen Murray Jazz Residency
program brings internationally recognized artists to our campus who coach and perform
with Towson students. The Towson University Jazz Festival is an annual event that
provides an opportunity for high school ensembles to work with guest artists and Towson
Jazz/Commercial faculty.

The Jazz/Commercial music program encourages interaction with other artists, programs
of the university, and the Greater Baltimore community providing students opportunity
to engage and participate in the region’s vibrant culture.

Visiting Artists

The Bill and Helen Murray Jazz Residency program brings internationally recognized
artists to campus to coach and perform with students. Towson’s Jazz Festival is an
annual event that allows high school ensembles to work with guest artists and Towson
faculty.